A man picks lanterns for the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Jan 26, 2017. The Chinese Lunar New Year falls on Jan 28 this year. [Photo/Xinhua]

OCCASION FOR GATHERINGS

During this time of the year, Chinese embassies as well as people of Chinese origin hold various receptions and parties in their respective countries to socialize with their counterparts and friends.

Earlier this month, the Chinese Embassy in Cuba held a New Year's reception, welcoming dozens of people of Chinese descent and Cuban guests.

The Chinese Ambassador to Cuba, Chen Xi, assured that the next 12 months will be decisive for strengthening political and commercial ties between the two countries in search of bilateral prosperity, as well as the bonds of friendship that have existed for more than 50 years.

The attendees extended their wishes for good fortune to the Chinese people and the future of bilateral relations.

The Chinese embassies in the United States, Nepal, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Egypt and Rwanda held all kinds of activities to mark the occasion, attracting members from various circles of their host countries.

President of the French National Assembly Claude Bartolone also threw a party in Paris recently to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year.